China uses these yak patrol teams to enforce claims over its disputed western borders

Chinese state media
China is the third largest country in the world by area, with many of its most remote areas incredibly difficult for humans to reach unaided.

This is especially true along China's western border with Pakistan. Here, China's Xinjiang Province soars into the sky as it meets the Pamir Mountains — one of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

Faced with a lack of roads, extremely adverse terrain, and incredibly cold weather, the Chinese turned to a unique method of transportation for its soldiers along the border: Yaks.